EP3441292A1 - Bicycle component - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bicycle component (1) for a bicycle (100) operated at least partially with muscle power. The bicycle component (1) comprises a seat post (2) telescopically adjustable between at least two positions (10, 20) for adjusting a seat height and a locking device (3) for locking the seat post (2) in at least one of the positions (10, 20). The seat post (2) comprises two relatively movable support members (12, 22), namely a first and a second support member, wherein the second support member (22) for receiving a saddle (103) is used. In this case, the first support element (12) is arranged at least in sections within the second support element (22). For telescoping the seat post (2), the second support element (22) is movable at least in sections over the first support element (12).

Description

The present invention relates to a bicycle component for an at least partially powered by muscle power bicycle with a telescopically adjustable between at least two positions seat post for adjusting a saddle height.

For a safe control of a bicycle and for a favorable power transmission, it is important that the saddle height is optimally adjusted. This applies to everyday or city bikes as well as sports bicycles. Often it is helpful to be able to easily and quickly adjust the saddle height to the different driving situations.

For example, when riding downhill, the saddle must be low enough so that the rider can put his weight behind the saddle to shift the center of gravity to the rear. When driving in the sitting position, the saddle height must be ergonomically adjusted to allow a favorable force input into the drive.

Therefore, bicycles are increasingly equipped with adjustable seat posts, which are also referred to as telescopic supports. In such telescopic supports two telescoping tubes are used, the thicker tube is inserted into the bottom of the frame and the thinner tube protrudes upwards from the thicker tube. As a result, a very large adjustment can be made available because the inner tube almost arbitrarily deep in the bicycle frame can dive. For adjustment, the driver can operate the adjustment mechanism of the seat post usually from the handlebar. This allows adjustment of the saddle height while driving without the driver having to dismount.

Hydraulic seat posts allow adjustment in a variety of height positions. However, one drawback to this is that they are difficult to disassemble and clean and maintain. Special tools are required for disassembly. In addition, hydraulic fluid can escape if the disassembly is not professional.

The known adjustable seatposts generally work satisfactorily, but also offer room for improvement. In particular, the known solutions can be optimized in terms of their practicality and their weight and their production costs and in particular the maintenance costs.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an improved bicycle component with an adjustable seat post. In particular, an adjustable seat post is to be made available, which is reliable and uncomplicated and is economical to produce and in particular easy to maintain.

This object is achieved by a bicycle component with the features of claim 1 and by a bicycle according to claim 15. Preferred developments are subject of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the general description and the description of the embodiments.

The bicycle component according to the invention is intended for a bicycle operated at least partially by muscle power. The Bicycle component includes a telescopically adjustable seat post between at least two positions for adjusting a saddle height. The bicycle component comprises at least one locking device for locking the seat post in at least one of the positions. The seat post comprises at least two relatively movable support members, namely, the first support member and at least one second support member. The first support member may be attachable to or formed on a frame structure of the bicycle. The second support element serves to receive a saddle. In this case, the first support element is at least partially disposed within the second support member. For telescoping the seat post, the second support element is at least partially movable over the first support member. Such an "upside-down" design allows a very simple structure.

Particularly preferably, the second support element slides on a height adjustment (of a saddle) on the first support element and / or is guided by the first support element.

The bicycle component according to the invention offers many advantages. A significant advantage provides the inventive arrangement of the two support elements. As a result, the second or upper support element can be structurally designed independently of the frame structure and in particular of the seat tube diameter. This results in significantly higher degrees of freedom for the design and considerably more flexible design options in order to obtain a reliable and cost-optimized seat post. It is also particularly advantageous that the bicycle component according to the invention can be used particularly well as a mountain bike for other types of bicycles, z. For example, racing bikes, cyclo-cross bikes and trekking bikes and e-bikes. For example, significantly larger diameters for the second and upper support members are possible with the invention. This also results in a freer choice of material of the support elements. The bicycle component according to the invention therefore also allows an advantageous weight reduction, which is particularly advantageous in sports bikes. Another advantage is that there are higher degrees of freedom for the mounting of the saddle on the second support element. So far, the upper part of telescopic seat posts could be constructed only within very narrow limits, as this had to have a particularly small diameter to fit when retracting the saddle in the lower part. The lower part could not be easily enlarged, because this in turn must fit into the seat tube of the frame.

In all embodiments, it is preferred that the first support element consists of a lightweight material. It is possible that the first and / or the second support element consists at least partially or completely of a fiber-reinforced material such as a carbon material. Particularly preferably, the first support element consists at least partially and in particular at least to a considerable extent or essentially completely or completely of (at least) one fiber composite material.

Also for the first and lower support element more flexible design conditions are made possible. For example, the wall thickness of the first support member can be designed independently of the dimensions of the upper support member. Thus, the first or lower support member can be performed for example in an optimal lightweight construction. So far, the lower part of telescopic seat post had to be made so thin-walled that the upper part could dip so that telescoping is possible. The lower support element can be made so large, for example, that it fits perfectly into the seat tube. This results in a total considerably stiffer and resilient and at the same time weight-optimized seat post.

Another advantage is that the seatpost device is significantly less sensitive to contamination by the inventive arrangement of the two support elements and thus provides a particularly reliable function. The fact that the upper support member is movable over the lower support member, dirt can be stripped much easier and simply fall down. In particular, dirt and moisture does not accumulate at the top directly on the connection point of the two support elements, but it is stripped downwards.

In the context of the present invention, the term telescoping means, in particular, a relative telescoping of the support elements. For telescoping the seat post, preferably for reducing the height of the seat, in particular the second support element is at least partially slidable over the first support element. For telescoping the seat post, preferably for increasing the height of the saddle, in particular the second support element is at least partially moved upwards on the first support element. In particular, the first support element telescopes into the second support element or the second support element moves on the first support element.

The bicycle component may be formed in simple embodiments as a seat post.

Preferably, tubular support elements are provided. Preferably, the support elements are at least partially hollow.

In a proper use of the Seat post is the second support member in particular at the top and the first support member in particular arranged below. In this case, the first support element is received in particular at least in sections in a seat tube of a frame structure of a bicycle. The frame structure may be part of the bicycle component. The bicycle component may also include or be designed as a bicycle.

Preferably, at least one outer contour of the first support element and at least one inner contour of the second support element, i. the bushes of the respective support element, at least partially formed with an exact fit to each other, so that the second support element is guided along the first support member. This provides a smooth and robust retraction and extension of the seat post. In particular, the outer contour and the inner contour are formed there precisely matching one another, where the two support elements slide along one another or telescope. In particular, the first support element is guided in the second support element or the second support element is guided on the outside of the first support element. The first support member may be an integral part of the frame structure of the bicycle or bicycle frame and may be integral therewith or integrally worked therewith.

It is possible that at least one anti-rotation device is arranged between the two support elements. This prevents the saddle from twisting during operation and when lowering or moving apart the seat post. The rotation is provided in particular by the outer contour of the first support member and the inner contour of the second support member.

The anti-rotation device can also comprise at least one linear guide with at least one guide rail. The Guide rail is, for example, embedded in a recess in the first or second support member. The rotation can also have at least one toothing. Also possible is a differently configured anti-twist device. Particularly preferred allows the rotation against a smooth adjustment. In particular, the rotation is substantially free of play or (practically) designed free of play.

In particular, the support elements are cylindrical. In particular, an outer diameter of the first support element is smaller than an inner diameter of the second support element. The support elements may also be formed non-circular at least in sections.

The locking device is preferably arranged at least partially within one of the support elements and in particular within the first support element. This offers a particularly compact seat post and a low-maintenance housing. For example, at least one receiving space is arranged in the first support element, in which the locking device is arranged at least partially. In particular, the locking device is arranged in the first support element to such an extent that only the at least one locking element is not arranged within the first support element or outside the first support element. The locking device can also be arranged at least partially in the second support element.

The locking device preferably comprises at least one locking element. The locking element extends in the locked state, in particular through at least one wall of the first support element into the second support element. This offers a structurally unobtrusive and at the same time very reliable locking and enables a play-free realization. In particular, the locking element extends in the locked state in at least one wall of the second support member. For performing the locking element, the first support element may comprise at least one passage opening. For example, at least one bore is arranged in the wall. In particular, a plurality of locking elements is provided. The locking device is particularly suitable and designed to block a relative mobility of the support elements to each other by means of the locking element form fit.

In the locked state, the locking element extends in particular only in a part of a wall of the second support member. This has the advantage that a closed outer shell is provided, through which no dirt can penetrate. In particular, the second support element comprises at least one recess in the wall, in which the locking element is arranged in the locked state. The recess is formed for example as a depression or depression. It is also possible that the locking element in the locked state passes through the wall of the second support member.

The locking device is in particular suitable and designed to press the locking element at least partially into at least one recess of the second support element by means of at least one piston element. Thus, a reliable positioning of the locking elements is achieved. In particular, there is a locked position when the piston member pushes the locking element in the second support member. In particular, the piston element presses the locking element into the recess of the second support element. In particular, the locking device comprises at least one piston element. The recess is arranged in particular in the wall of the second support element.

The piston element is movable in particular in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the support elements. In particular, the piston element presses the locking element transversely to the longitudinal axis of the support element. In particular, the piston element comprises at least one wedge surface with which a longitudinal movement of the piston element can be converted into a transverse movement of the locking element. For example, the piston element is rod-shaped and / or cylindrical. In an at least partially cylindrical configuration of the piston element, the wedge surface is preferably formed on a cone and is designed conical. It is also possible that the piston element is annular and / or formed as a socket. In particular, the wedge element is adapted to an inner diameter and / or an inner contour of the first support element. In particular, the piston element is guided in the first support element and preferably linearly guided.

The locking element or the locking elements is or are preferably inserted loosely and are not guided in particular.

The piston element is preferably movable in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the first support element in at least one release position. In the release position, the piston element preferably does not push the locking element into the second support element. This provides a lock, which is inexpensive and reliable. In particular, the piston element has at least one recess in which the locking element can be received in the release position. In particular, the locking element in the release position is no longer arranged in (the wall of) the second support element.

The bicycle component comprises in particular at least one actuating device for releasing and / or activating the lock. In this case, the actuating device is in particular suitable and adapted to move the piston member in the release position and / or in the locked position. The actuating device may be at least partially manually or fully manually operable. Also possible is a motor-assisted and / or fully automatic operation and / or wireless operation and operation. In preferred embodiments, a mechanical solution is realized, even if it is reserved to realize electrical and / or remote-controlled and / or wireless control options, if these are technically possible and legally permissible.

Particularly preferably, the piston element for taking the release position in the direction of an end facing away from the second support member of the first support member or a receivable in the frame structure end of the first support member is movable. In particular, the piston element for taking the release position in the direction of an end facing away from the second support element end of the first support element by a pulling and preferably by at least one cable pulling device is movable. This allows a particularly space-saving accommodation of the actuator. For taking the release position, the wedge element is movable in particular in the direction of that end of the first support element which is opposite to the end of the first support element connected to the second support element. In particular, the wedge element can be transferred from the locked position into the release position by being moved to the end of the first support element, which can be received in the frame structure.

The piston element is particularly preferably suitable and designed to be pulled into the release position by means of at least one actuating device. Such a drag can be implemented particularly inexpensive and robust. In particular, the piston element with the actuating device becomes an end of the first support element pulled, which is receivable in the frame structure and which faces away from the second support element. It is also possible that the piston element can be pressed by means of the actuating device in the release position.

In all embodiments, it is preferred that the bicycle component comprises at least one actuating device for releasing and / or activating the locking device. The actuating device is in particular the actuating device described above, by means of which the piston element is pulled into the release position. Preferably, the actuating device is at least partially formed mechanically. The actuating device can be designed completely mechanically.

Preferably, the actuating device comprises at least one cable pull device with at least one cable pull. The actuating device may comprise at least one mechanical operating lever with which the cable can be transferred into at least one position or at least one of the two positions (released / locked). A cable pull device offers many advantages and is, for example, particularly low maintenance and reliable. In particular, the actuating device is suitable and designed to pull the piston element by means of the cable pulling device. The cable runs in particular within the first support element. In particular, the cable also runs within the frame structure and in particular of a seat tube of the bicycle.

It has been found that the cable is not accurately positioned or held in positions when the piston member is not locked. Then, the actuator can be easily moved in at least one direction without the user receiving haptic feedback. The user can then appear to that the seat post does not operate in a defined manner and, where appropriate, the user's confidence in reliability may be compromised. Also to z. For example, to avoid such an impression, the cable may be coupled to a cable tensioner to provide a defined haptic feedback to the user at all times. The rope tightener avoids otherwise potentially occurring play.

The cable is preferably coupled via at least one cable tensioner in particular with the piston element. The cable tensioner preferably comprises at least one biasing unit, which leads to a tightening of the rope. The biasing unit may be implemented as a mechanical spring, but may also be e.g. be executed on a magnetic basis. The biasing unit is preferably arranged on a sliding element, on which the or one end of the cable is held. The sliding element is pressed by the biasing unit in a prestressed state.

A biasing force of the biasing unit is opposite to a bias of the biasing device. However, the magnitude of the biasing force of the biasing unit is preferably substantially less than a level of the biasing force of the biasing means, so that an effective force of the biasing means always acts. Preferably, the biasing force of the biasing unit is less than half the size, more preferably less than a quarter or one-eighth of the biasing force of the biasing device.

The biasing unit causes in each state of the actuator or in any position of the (mechanical) operating lever, a force for the tension of the cable is applied. The user always receives the feedback of a precisely defined mode of operation.

It is also possible that the actuating device is at least partially formed hydraulically.

The actuating device preferably comprises at least one operating part for pulling or tensioning the cable pull. The control panel is in particular mounted on a handlebar device of the driver. The control panel is also designed in particular for actuating and / or tensioning and / or relaxing the cable pull. The control unit may be suitable and designed to determine the cable, for example in the release position and / or the locked position. The cable can in one of the two positions z. B. be biased by a spring.

It is particularly preferred that the cable exits from an axial end face of the first support element. This allows a well-protected and easy to install laying the cable, for example, within the frame structure of the bicycle. In particular, the cable pull out at one end of the first support element, which is receivable in the frame structure and is remote from the second support element. In particular, the cable pulls out at one end of the first support element, which is directed in an operative position down or to the ground. In particular, the cable pull device is suitable and designed so that the cable pull can be laid within a frame structure of a bicycle and in particular at least within a seat tube. It is also possible that the cable exits on a radial side of the first support member.

The bicycle component comprises in particular at least one preloading device or a pretensioning device which can be pretensioned by pulling the piston element into the release position. The biasing device is particularly suitable and designed to transfer the piston element from the release position to the locked position, if the cable is relaxed. This offers a cost-effective and reliable provision of the locking device. This can reliably ensure that the saddle remains in the desired position after setting.

The biasing device comprises in particular at least one energy accumulator and, for example, at least one spring and / or gas spring. In particular, the piston element is movable counter to a biasing force of the biasing device in the release position.

In particular, the actuating device is suitable and designed to automatically convert the piston element by means of the biasing device again in the locked position when no tension on the piston element is applied or when the cable is no longer pulled. The biasing means is particularly adapted and adapted to transfer the piston member from the release position to the locked position when the piston member is no longer actively held in the release position.

In an advantageous embodiment, the locking element comprises at least one ball or is designed as at least one such. With such a ball can be achieved particularly inexpensively and without additional springs or the like that the lock is released when the piston member is pulled into the release position. Particularly preferred is a plurality of locking elements and in particular provided by balls. For example, two or three or four or more locking elements are provided.

The locking element may also comprise at least one pin and / or at least one pawl or the like. Other suitable embodiments of the locking element are also possible. It is possible that the locking element at least one Biasing device is assigned, which moves the locking element out of the second support element when the wedge element is in the release position.

Within the second support element, at least one force storage device is preferably arranged. In particular, the bicycle component comprises at least one force storage device. The force storage device is particularly suitable and designed to be at least partially charged by a retraction of the first support member in the second support member. The force storage device is particularly suitable and designed to be at least partially unloaded by an extension of the first support member from the second support member, so that the seat post is at least partially automatically extendable.

Such an energy storage device allows a very comfortable return of the seat post. For example, only the buttocks must be raised and the control panel operated. The force storage device can be recharged in particular by the weight of the driver. The force storage device is supported in particular on the first and the second support element. The force direction of the force storage device extends in particular in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the support elements. It is possible that a force for moving the saddle of the force storage device is adjustable. The force storage device comprises in particular at least one spring and / or at least one gas spring. In particular, the force storage device also returns the cable and / or biases it.

Particularly preferably, the force storage device is designed such that an extension speed of the seat post does not exceed a predetermined maximum speed. In particular, will to at least one spring and / or gas spring used with a defined spring force. Such an embodiment has the advantage that too high a speed or even a jerky extension of the second support element is reliably avoided. So z. B. be dispensed with a complex and weight-increasing damper device. The use of a damper device is possible. In simple embodiments, a friction element can be used in a longer stroke.

Preferably, at least one friction element is arranged between the two support elements. Preferably, the friction element comprises at least one seal and in particular at least one sealing ring and / or at least one O-ring or the like. Such a friction element has the advantage that the speed during extension of the seat post can be slowed down. In all embodiments, it is preferred to provide at least one end damping on the bicycle component in order to bring about end damping in at least one end position or preferably at both end positions or positions. Such an end attenuation can in particular act stroke-dependent and, for example, act on the last 10 mm or in particular 5 mm or 2 mm of the stroke.

The first support element preferably comprises at least two tubular and in a connection region firmly interconnected support portions. By such a structure of the first support member, the manufacturing cost can be significantly reduced. For example, this makes it particularly easy to integrate the locking device and / or the actuating device. The two support sections are preferably glued together. The two support sections can also be pressed together and / or welded together. Other suitable non-positive and / or positive locking and / or cohesive connection types. Preferably, the use of lightweight materials such as light metal. Particular preference is given to using fiber-reinforced plastics such as carbon materials.

In the connection region, at least one outer contour of the first support element is preferably formed with an exact fit to at least one inner contour of the second support element. This has the advantage that even in the connection area a smooth-running guidance is achieved. The outer contour and the inner contour are in particular formed such that the second support element is guided on the first support element.

Preferably, the support sections are arranged overlapping at least in the connection area. In particular, a coaxial arrangement of the two support sections is provided in the connection region. It is also possible an arrangement of the support sections on impact.

Preferably, the one support portion at least partially on a greater wall thickness than the other support portion. In particular, the one support section has at least one passage opening for the locking element. In particular, the other support section has no passage opening for the locking element. The two support sections provide an inexpensive way to realize different wall thicknesses. As a result, a very stable and at the same time particularly lightweight design is achieved.

In an advantageous embodiment of the one support portion consists at least to a considerable extent of a fiber composite material. Preferably, the other support portion consists at least to a considerable extent of a metallic lightweight material. The lightweight material is in particular an aluminum material and for example a Aluminum alloy. Such a mixture of materials achieves an optimum weight and a particularly high stability for each support section and its respective task. Also possible are magnesium-containing lightweight materials or other lightweight metallic materials.

It is also possible and preferred that both support sections are at least to a considerable extent made of a metallic lightweight material. This offers a particularly cost-optimized and at the same time very reliable seat post. It can also be made at least to a considerable extent of a fiber composite material both support portions.

The first support member may also be provided by a single or continuous tubular member. Such a configuration offers the advantages of the bicycle component according to the invention together with a special cost optimization. The component is in particular made of a fiber composite material or of a metallic lightweight material.

By selecting suitable and lightweight materials for the first support element (light metal, fiber composite material, carbon) and the second support element, a low total weight with high stability can be achieved. In case of wear of the locking elements and wear of the individual components, these can be easily replaced.

In all embodiments, the replacement of individual components is simple and tool-free possible. This allows the bicycle component to be maintained when needed or regularly. It is particularly preferred no tools and in particular no special tools needed. The locking elements are preferably made of a resilient material and in particular of a stronger and wear-resistant Material as the first and / or second support element. As a result, maintenance costs can be saved. The locking elements may be hardened and / or have at least one coating to the surface z. B. to harden.

In particular, the piston element is guided in at least one support section, preferably in the support section with the greater wall thickness. In the support portion with the larger wall thickness, the biasing device is preferably added. In particular, the one support section provides a linear guide for the piston element. It is also preferred that the force storage device is supported directly or indirectly on the one support section.

In all embodiments, it is preferred that a stroke of the seat post is between 15 mm and 60 mm and in particular between 20 mm and 50 mm. The maximum stroke can also be 40 mm or 30 mm. Particularly preferably, a stroke between 30 mm and 50 mm is provided. Also possible is a shorter or longer maximum stroke. Conceivable and preferred is also a stroke of up to 80 mm or up to 100 mm. The stroke relates in particular to a movement of the second support element relative to the first support element.

Such a configuration has proved to be particularly advantageous for adapting the seating position with respect to the aerodynamic properties of a bicycle including the driver located thereon. For example, a reduction in seat height of one millimeter due to the reduced wind resistance can reduce the power required for driving by up to 1 W or even at high speeds. Therefore, it is in many driving situations and especially in competitions or even e-bikes to improve the range of great advantage to lower the saddle height. However, only one should slight lowering, so that the ergonomically favorable seating position is maintained. The bicycle component according to the invention is particularly well suited for this purpose. The maximum stroke described above therefore allows a considerable improvement in the aerodynamic properties and thus the driving performance of the driver or the e-bike drive.

The security is increased. For example, the user of an e-bike at a traffic light or at a stop lower the seat post to be better and safer to support the foot can.

In particular, the seat post is adjustable only between two positions. The positions are in particular end positions. In particular, no intermediate positions are provided. This provides a quick and comfortable adjustment of a seating position for a reduced wind resistance.

The invention provides a very simple and reliable way of height adjustment.

In particular, at least one passage opening in the first support element and in each case at least one recess in the second support element are arranged for each intended position. In particular, both positions can be locked.

It can also be provided that at least one intermediate position can be set between the two positions. In particular, the locking device is suitable and designed to automatically go back to a locked position when reaching one of the two positions and / or an intermediate position and to lock the position. For this purpose, an actuation and / or release of the actuator may be necessary.

In one embodiment, the bicycle component includes at least one hydraulic damper device for damping the telescoping movement. In particular, an extension of the seat post is damped. It can also be a retraction dampened. This provides a particularly comfortable adjustment of the seat post, as a jerky extension is avoided when the lock is released.

The damper device preferably comprises at least two damper chambers, between which a damper fluid can flow via at least one valve device. In particular, a flow of the damper fluid between the damper chambers can be influenced in a targeted manner with the valve device. The damping can be fixed or adjustable.

The piston member preferably provides at least part of the valve means of the damper means. In particular, the piston element is designed as a valve piston of the valve device. In particular, the piston element is suitable and designed to selectively influence the flow of the damper fluid between the damper chambers.

It is possible that the damper device and the energy storage device are combined with each other. For example, the damper device may be combined with at least one spring. For example, the force storage device and the damper device are designed as a gas pressure shock absorber.

The bicycle according to the invention is operable at least partially by muscular power and comprises at least one bicycle component as previously described.

The bicycle according to the invention also offers many advantages. One advantage is that the bike always offers an optimal sitting position even in different driving situations.

In particular, the cable runs at least in sections within a seat tube and / or another frame structure of the bicycle.

Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the embodiments, which will be explained with reference to the accompanying figures below.

Fig. 1

eine stark schematische Darstellung eines Fahrrads mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Fahrradkomponente;

Fig. 2

eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Fahrradkomponente in einer Seitenansicht;

Fig. 3

die Fahrradkomponente in einer geschnittenen Darstellung in einer Seitenansicht;

Fig. 4

eine Detaildarstellung der Fahrradkomponente der Fig. 3;

Fig. 5

die Fahrradkomponente in einer geschnittenen Darstellung in einer Ansicht von unten.

In the figures show:

Fig. 1

a highly schematic representation of a bicycle with a bicycle component according to the invention;

Fig. 2

a schematic representation of a bicycle component according to the invention in a side view;

Fig. 3

the bicycle component in a sectional view in a side view;

Fig. 4

a detailed representation of the bicycle component of Fig. 3 ;

Fig. 5

the bicycle component in a sectional view in a view from below.

The FIG. 1 shows a bicycle 100 designed as a mountain bike with a bicycle component 1 according to the invention. The bicycle 100 can also be designed as a partially muscle-operated bicycle and, for example, as an e-bike.

The bicycle 100 has two wheels 105, which are each equipped here with a hub and a rim 106. The bicycle 100 is executed fully suspended. The fork 109 is for this purpose designed as a suspension fork 110 and the frame 107 has a rear wheel damper 111.

Furthermore, the bicycle 100 includes a saddle 103, a frame 107, a handlebar 108 and other bicycle components. As part of a pedal drive 112, the bicycle 100 here includes a derailleur 113. In addition, the bicycle 100 has a braking device not shown in detail.

The bicycle component 1 comprises an adjustable seatpost device 2, which is accommodated here in a frame structure 102 designed as a seat tube 104. The seat post 2 is fixed in the seat tube 104 by means of a seat tube clamp 101.

The seat post 2 is adjustably formed, so that the saddle 103 can be fixed in various positions or saddle heights. For this purpose, the seat post device 2 here comprises two support elements 12, 22, which can be telescopically pulled apart or pushed into each other.

In the illustration shown here, the seat post 2 is in a maximum extended first position 10. In addition, a lower saddle height can be adjusted. As a result, the seat post 2 is pushed into one another and brought into a second position 20, which is not shown in greater detail here. In one embodiment, the seat post can also be adjusted in one or more intermediate positions.

For locking a set seat position, the bicycle component 1 comprises a not visible here inside the seat post 2 arranged locking device 3. To release or activate the lock here an actuator 6 is provided with an attached to the handlebar 108 control panel 16.

The actuating device 6 comprises here a Cable pull device 7 with a cable pull 17. The cable pull device 7 may comprise various components for guiding the cable pull 17 and, for example, deflection rollers or the like. The cable 17 runs here from the control panel 16 in the frame 107 and there through the seat tube 104 to the seat post 2 to the locking device. 3

For example, the cable 17 is tensioned with the operating part 16 in order to release the locking device 3. Then the saddle can either be pressed deeper with the buttocks or be moved by lifting the buttocks with the help of an energy storage device 9, not shown here, upwards. The seat post 2 then locked in the respective position 10, 20. It is also possible that a continuous adjustment is provided so that z. B. when you release the control panel 16 of the saddle 103 remains in a particular position.

The FIGS. 2 to 5 show a bicycle component 1 according to the invention in various representations. The bicycle component 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS FIGS. 2 to 5 described in more detail.

The bicycle component 1 comprises a seatpost device 2 with a first or lower support element 12 and a second or upper support element 22. The two support elements 12, 22 are telescopic.

The upper support element 22 is here equipped with a saddle mount 11, via which a saddle can be mounted on the seat post 2.

The second support member 22 may be a separate part or may be integrally formed with or fixed to the frame structure of the bicycle.

At the opposite end of the saddle receiving 11 of the upper support member 22, a seal 31 and an O-ring is arranged. To receive the seal 31, the upper support member 22 has a collar.

At the saddle receiving 11 opposite end of the support member 22 is here a dirt deflector 21 is arranged. As a result, contaminants are stripped off during immersion.

In the Figures 3 and 4 the internal components of the seat post 2 are particularly easy to recognize. The locking device 3 is arranged here essentially within the first support element 12. The locking device 3 here comprises a plurality of locking elements 4, of which only two can be seen here. The locking elements 4 are formed here as balls 14.

In this case, a respective locking element 4 extends through a wall 121 of the first support element 12. For this purpose, the wall 121 has a passage opening 303. The locking element 4 extends further into a part of a wall 221 of the second support element 22. There, a recess 222 for the locking element 4 is incorporated. In the region of the recess 222, the wall 221 is provided with an outwardly facing projection 223. The recess 122 is formed here circumferentially or annular. However, an embodiment in which a corresponding recess 202 20 is provided for each of the locking elements 4 is also possible.

The locking elements 4 are here pressed by a piston member 5 and a cone 51 of the piston member 5 in the recess 222. In this position, the locking elements 4 prevent the second or upper support element 22 from being able to lower further. The saddle height or the position of the two support elements 12, 22 to each other is thus locked. The piston element 5 and the locking elements 4 are located in a locked or locked position. Here, the upper position 10 of the bicycle component 1 or the seat post or seat post 2 is shown. The locking elements 4 are locked in the lower recesses 222 of the second support element 22.

In order to release the locking device 3 and retract the seat post 2, the piston element 5 is pulled downwards in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the support elements 12, 22. Then, the piston member 5 is transferred to a release position. In the release position, by a corresponding pressure on the saddle, for example, with the buttocks, the saddle height can be reduced.

The piston element 5 is conical in this case, so that it narrows towards the upper end. If the piston element 5 is moved downwards, it no longer pushes the locking elements 4 (via the cone 51) into the recess 222. Thus, the upper support element 22 can slide over the lower support element 12.

In order to lock the saddle height in the retracted, lower position 20, the locking device 3 here comprises an additional, more upwardly located recess 222. There, the locking elements 4 can be pressed by the piston member 5, so that the seat post 2 is locked in this position.

The bicycle component 1 here comprises an energy storage device 9 designed as a spring 19, which is pretensioned when the seatpost device 2 retracts. For this purpose, the spring 19 is designed as a compression spring. When the seat post 2 is locked in the lower position 20 and the piston member 5 is transferred to the release position, the upper support member 22 moves together with the saddle automatically by the force of the biased spring 19th up.

In order to reliably hold the piston element 5 in the locked position, the locking device 3 is here equipped with a pretensioning device 8. The tensioning device 8 here comprises a spring 18 which automatically presses the piston element 5 into the locked position.

The piston element 5 is moved here with an actuating device 6 with a cable pulling device 7 between the release position and the locked position. To release the lock, the piston member 5 is pulled with a cable 17 of the cable pulling device 7 down. As long as the cable 17 is under tension, the piston element 5 remains in the release position and the locking elements 4 are not pressed into the recess 222. If the cable 17 is relaxed, the biasing device 8 pushes the piston unit 5 back into the locked position.

For actuating the cable pull means 7, for example, a control panel 16 as with respect to the FIG. 1 described provided.

The cable 17 here passes through the lower support member 12 and leaves it at one end 122, which is receivable in the seat tube 104 of the bicycle 100. The cable 17 exits at an axial end face 123 of the support element.

The first support element 12 is here composed of two tubular and in a connecting region 300 interconnected support portions 301, 302. The support sections 301, 302 are arranged overlapping in the connection region 300. The upper in the operative state support portion 301 has here a greater wall thickness than the lower support portion 302. In the upper support portion 301 Here is the passage opening 303 for the locking elements 4. In addition, the piston member 5 is guided in the upper support portion 301.

The first support element 12 here has an outer contour 120, which is tuned to an inner contour 220 of the second support element. In this case, the outer contour 120 of the first support element 12 is provided here by the two support sections 301 and 302. Thus, the upper support member 22 can be slid easily over the connecting portion 300 without tilting.

In the region of the upper end of the second support element 22, a cushion end 23 is provided. At the lower end, a cushioning can be provided.

In order to provide the user with a defined mode of operation in all positions of the actuating device, the cable pull 17 is coupled to a cable tensioner 24. As a result, the user receives at any time a defined haptic feedback when touching or moving the actuator.

The rope tightener 24 includes a biasing unit 25 and a sliding member 26 which is axially guided within the piston member. The sliding element is pressed by the biasing unit in a prestressed state and keeps the rope always taut.

In the FIG. 5 It can be seen particularly well that the two support elements 12, 22 have a substantially round outer contour 120 or inner contour 220. In order to prevent undesired rotation of the saddle, an anti-rotation device 400 with three guide elements 401 is provided here. The guide elements 401 are arranged here between the two support elements 12, 22. Thereby are the two support members 12, 22 rotatably connected to each other.

The seatpost device 2 shown here may also include a damper device for damping the telescoping movement. For example, then the piston member 5 is formed as a valve piston, which influences a flow of a damper fluid. <B> LIST OF REFERENCES: </ b> 1 bicycle component 102 frame structure 2 Saddle support device 103 saddle 3 locking device 104 seat tube 4 locking element 105 Wheel 5 piston element 106 rim 6 actuator 107 frame 7 cable equipment 108 handlebars 8th biasing means 109 fork 9 Power storage device 110 fork 10 position 111 damper 11 Saddle pickup 112 Cycle 12 first support element 113 derailleur 14 Bullet 120 outer contour 16 control panel 121 wall 17 cable 122 The End 18 feather 123 front 19 feather 220 inner contour 20 position 221 wall 21 dirt deflector 222 recess 22 second support element 223 head Start 23 Final Dampers 300 connecting area 24 rope tensioner 301 support section 25 biasing unit 302 support section 26 Slide 303 Through opening 31 poetry 400 twist 100 bicycle 401 guide element 101 Seat tube clamp

Claims (15)

Bicycle component (1) for a bicycle (100) operated at least partly by muscle power, comprising a seat post (2) telescopically adjustable between at least two positions (10, 20) for adjusting a seat height and at least one locking device (3) for locking the seat post (2 ) in at least one of the positions (10, 20), wherein the seat post (2) comprises at least two relatively movable support members (12, 22), namely a first support member (12) and a second support member (22), the second support member (22) for receiving a saddle (103),
characterized,
in that the first support element (12) is arranged at least in sections within the second support element (22) and in that the second support element (22) can be moved at least in sections via the first support element (12) for telescoping the seat post device (2). Bicycle component (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the locking device (3) is arranged at least partially within the first support element (12) and wherein the locking device (3) comprises at least one locking element (4),
which in the locked state extends through at least one wall (121) of the first support element (12) into the second support element (22) and wherein the locking element (4) comprises at least one ball (14) or is designed as such. Bicycle component (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the locking element (4) in the locked state only in a part of a wall (221) of the second support member (22) extends. Bicycle component (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the locking device (3) is adapted and configured to press the locking element (4) at least partially into at least one recess (222) of the second support element by means of at least one piston element (5) and wherein in particular the piston element (5) is movable in at least one release position in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the first support element (12) and wherein the piston element (5) in the release position does not press the locking element (4) into the second support element (22). Bicycle component (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the piston element (5) for taking the release position in the direction of an end facing away from the second support element (122) of the first support element (12) is movable in particular by pulling. Bicycle component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one actuating device (6) for releasing and / or activating the locking device (3) and wherein the actuating device (6) is at least partially mechanically formed and at least one cable pulling device (7) with at least one Cable (17) includes. Bicycle component (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cable pull (17) from an axial end face (123) of the first support member (12) emerges. Bicycle component (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the cable is coupled with a rope tightener. Bicycle component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein within the second support element (22) at least one force storage device (9) is arranged and wherein the energy storage device (9) is adapted and formed by retracting the first support member (12) in the second support member (22) to be at least partially charged and at least partially unloaded by an extension of the first support member (12) from the second support member (22), so that the seat post (2) is at least partially automatically extendable. Bicycle component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first support element (12) and / or the second support element (22) at least to a considerable extent consists of a fiber composite material. Bicycle component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first support element (12) comprises at least two tubular and in a connecting region (300) fixedly connected and preferably glued support portions (301, 302). Bicycle component (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the one support portion (301) at least partially a greater wall thickness than the other support portion (302) and at least one passage opening (303) for the locking element (4). Bicycle component (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the one support portion (301) consists at least to a considerable extent of a fiber composite material and / or wherein the other support portion (302) at least to a considerable extent of a metallic lightweight material and in particular of aluminum material consists. Bicycle component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a maximum lift of the seat post (2) is 100 mm and preferably 80 mm. A bicycle (100) operable, at least in part, by muscular power, comprising at least one bicycle component (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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